Dissonance refers to a disruptive or unpleasant sound that results from two or more musical notes being played simultaneously. In music, this creates an unresolved and tense feeling in listeners due to the clashing of different pitches. However, when these dissonant sounds are resolved into consonant harmonies through progression, it leads to a sense of satisfaction for the listener.
In broader terms, dissonance can also refer to any unpleasant or discordant situation where things do not seem to fit together properly. This could be in relationships, ideas, beliefs, or experiences that cause internal conflict and unease within an individual. The concept of cognitive dissonance is a psychological theory which suggests that people have a natural tendency to seek balance and consistency between their thoughts, feelings, and actions. When there is inconsistency, individuals may experience mental stress or discomfort until the situation is resolved.